How long does a foot stay swollen after a fall?
After you suffer an injury, swelling usually worsens over the first two to four days. It can then last for as long as three months as the body attempts to heal itself. If the swelling lasts longer than this, your physical therapist or doctor may need to take a closer look to determine the cause of the delayed healing.
Why is my foot swollen after a fall?
Swelling is the result of the increased movement of fluid and white blood cells into the injured area. The release of chemicals and the compression of nerves in the area of injury cause pain. The pain and swelling can keep the athlete from using the injured part, serving to protect it from further injury.
How can you tell if your foot is broken or just sprained?
In general, a broken foot tends to be more painful than a sprained foot, and the pain lasts longer. Bruising, swelling, and tenderness are also more severe if your foot is broken. Another way to tell the difference between a broken foot and sprained foot is the sound the body makes when the injury occurs.
Should I sleep with my foot wrapped?
Compression — Wrapping a stretchable elastic bandage around your foot and ankle can help minimize swelling after injury. If you’re going to wrap your ankle, it is best to put the bandage on first thing in the morning, and then take it off at bedtime.
How do you treat inflammation of the foot?
Treatment
- Rest: Stay off the foot or ankle.
- Ice: Apply an ice pack to the injured area, placing a thin towel between the ice and the skin.
- Compression: An elastic wrap should be used to control swelling.
- Elevation: The foot or ankle should be raised slightly above the level of your heart to reduce swelling.
What medicine helps with swelling?
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reduce pain, swelling, stiffness and inflammation….These include:
- Aspirin (Bayer® Aspirin, Ecotrin®, Excedrin®, St. Joseph’s®, and many others)
- Ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®, and others)
- Ketoprofen (Orudis®)
- Naproxen (Aleve®)
Should I wrap my foot if it is swollen?
Ice is best, especially for the first 48 hours after injury. Compression — Wrapping a stretchable elastic bandage around your foot and ankle can help minimize swelling after injury. If you’re going to wrap your ankle, it is best to put the bandage on first thing in the morning, and then take it off at bedtime.
How do you know if you broke your foot or sprain it?